In March, I attended the National Pork Industry Forum meetings in Chicago, Ill. Attendance seemed slightly lower compared to previous years, which is understandable, given the challenges the pork industry has endured recently. As an employee of Compeer Financial, I represented the allied industry for the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), falling under the voluntary Pork Checkoff funding program. The Pork Forum conducted all annual business for both the National Pork Board, funded by the mandatory Checkoff, and NPPC. Delegates voted on resolutions impacting the pork industry’s future direction.
Be Prepared
One significant resolution, presented by Kentucky, supported the adoption of the NPPC AHFSPC 2023 Mandatory Traceability Standards, forwarding them to the USDA for inclusion in a regulation mandating a preharvest traceability program. This program grants animal health officials access to pig movements across the U.S., aiding in identifying infected areas in case of a foreign animal disease (FAD) outbreak. This information is crucial for assuring trading partners that the U.S. can regionalize an FAD, potentially reopening trade access for U.S. pork.
The overwhelming support for the resolution was notable, despite the additional costs it may entail for pork operations. The benefits in the event of an FAD outweigh the alternative of being unprepared. These standards not only benefit producers but also enhance relationships with trading partners and consumers.
Refuse to Quit
The highlight of the week for me was listening to Chris Norton’s message on perseverance. Norton, a former college football player, shared his inspiring story of overcoming a spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed. Despite being told by doctors that he only had a 3% chance of walking again, Norton refused to accept the prognosis. His determination to exceed expectations in therapy sessions led to remarkable progress, including walking across the stage at his graduation and down the aisle at his wedding. His story, featured in the Netflix documentary “7 Yards: The Chris Norton Story,” serves as a reminder of the power of resilience.
Amidst the financial challenges faced by the swine industry over the past 18 months, Norton’s story resonated with me. While not identical, the struggles of pork producers echo the theme of perseverance. I believe most producers will weather this downturn with hard work and dedication, ultimately achieving their goals and thriving in the industry.
Chris’s final message echoed wisdom passed down from his father during his youth. His father’s advice, given after a disappointing basketball game, was clear: “If you’re unhappy with the outcome, take action to change it.”
I want to share this message with all of you. There are moments when stakeholders may disagree with the direction taken by the National Pork Board or NPPC. My suggestion is simple: if you seek change and don’t align with the current trajectory, get involved. Whether through committee participation or joining the board of directors, your involvement can make a difference.
The challenges facing the pork industry won’t diminish; they’ll only grow as detractors invest in efforts against pork production and attempt to dictate its future. As Chris’s father would say, if something doesn’t sit right with you, take steps to address it!
Steve Malakowsky is director of swine lending at Compeer Financial.
